Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) has released a 114-page research report examining the political and socioeconomic impacts of illegal immigration on India’s National Capital.
Titled Illegal Immigrants to Delhi: Analysing Socio Economic and Political Consequences, the report was authored by a team led by Professors Manuradha Chaudhary and Preeti D Das.
According to 2016 estimates, India hosts over 1.5 crore illegal Bangladeshi immigrants, whose significant presence in border states and the National Capital presents various challenges.
“The large influx of illegal immigrants from Bangladesh in recent decades has already led to significant economic, social, and security challenges for India. This has been especially evident in the border states, where such shifts have fuelled tensions between the local population and the growing number of outsiders.”
The study was carried out in 20 areas of Delhi, known as hubs for illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. These locations include Seelampur, Jamia Nagar, Zakir Nagar, Lajpat Nagar, Kailash Nagar, Khichripur, Sarai Kale Khan, Sultanpuri, Mustafabad, Nizamuddin, Sarai Rohilla, Jafrabad, Shahdara, Bhalswa Dairy, Bawana, Dwarka, Rohini, Moti Nagar, and Govindpuri.
It found, “In 1951, Hindus comprised 84.16% of the population, which declined slightly to 81.68% by 2011, indicating a gradual decrease in their proportional share. Conversely, the Muslim population increased significantly from 5.70% in 1951 to 12.86% in 2011, reflecting a substantial rise in their demographic presence over the six decades. This shift suggests changes in migration patterns, birth rates, and socio-economic factors influencing religious demographics in Delhi.”
The study highlighted that the significant increase in the Muslim population was driven by factors like high fertility rates and migration patterns.
How do Bangladeshis and Rohingyas arrive in Delhi?
The report released by JNU highlighted that unauthorized immigrants from Bangladesh and Myanmar enter India through the easily penetrable borders of West Bengal, Assam, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura.
“The border areas are difficult to police entirely, which allows for easier unauthorised entry,” it added.
Afterward, the infiltrators migrate to metropolitan cities like Delhi, where they seek employment in construction, domestic work, street vending, and other sectors.
“Illegal migration from Bangladesh and Myanmar to Delhi typically involves crossing borders without the necessary documentation, entering the informal economy, and creating a range of social, legal, and security challenges. Driven by economic struggles or persecution, these migrants find themselves trapped in a cycle of crime,” the report stated.
It highlighted that illegal immigrants often enter alone and later assist others in infiltrating India’s National Capital. They receive support from brokers, agents, and a vast network of relatives and friends who help them secure temporary housing and job opportunities.
Page 42 of the report states, “One of the most prevalent patterns is the family-first strategy, where one family member, typically male, migrates first to secure employment and housing, effectively laying the groundwork for other family members to join later.“
The study identified a growing trend of women migrants from rural Bangladesh moving to Delhi, contributing to the city’s informal and underground economy.
It also revealed that most Rohingyas and undocumented Bangladeshis initially reside in West Bengal before making their way to Delhi. Other states such as Assam, Jharkhand, and Tripura also serve as temporary settlements before they relocate to the National Capital.
Professors Manuradha Chaudhary and Preeti D Das found that the majority of the surveyed infiltrators had been living in Delhi for a period ranging from one to five years.
Additionally, the study underscored the role of religious festivals like Eid and Muharram in fostering community bonds among illegal immigrants.
“Religious events and family gatherings play a significant role in reinforcing these connections. Celebrations such as Eid, Muharram, and other family occasions serve as important opportunities for migrants to interact with people from similar backgrounds, strengthening the sense of community and belonging in the city,” the report stated.
It emphasized that unauthorized entrants from Bangladesh and Myanmar receive backing from unregistered NGOs, religious organizations, and political figures.
Effects of Unauthorized Immigration on Delhi
The significant influx of infiltrators is undermining social unity and depleting the resources of India's National Capital.
“The presence of illegal migrants often exerts a considerable strain on public resources, as their limited financial integration and lack of asset ownership create dependencies on already stretched public systems,” the report stated (Page 65).
Dense and overcrowded settlements have emerged in Seelampur, Jamia Nagar, Zakir Nagar, Sultanpuri, Mustafabad, Jafrabad, Dwarka, and Govindpuri. Over the years, these unauthorized colonies have seen rapid expansion.
Already grappling with issues related to water supply, housing, and sanitation, Delhi became further strained by the influx of Rohingyas and Bangladeshis. These migrants have established a significant presence in ecologically sensitive areas of the National Capital.
“The notion that illegal immigrants may serve as a key voting bloc has spurred considerable debate, with allegations that certain political figures may disregard their illegal status in exchange for electoral support. This phenomenon, though often difficult to substantiate with concrete evidence, is reflected in various anecdotal accounts and investigative reports that suggest complicity between local officials and undocumented migrant groups,” Page 89 of the report stated.
The undocumented immigrants have established a network of brokers, agents, and Islamic preachers who assist them with housing and employment. Many of them are employed in the informal sector, and their growing numbers in the labor market have contributed to wage reductions.
This is particularly evident in industries such as domestic work and construction. Public services intended for Indian citizens are overwhelmed by the influx of Bangladeshi and Rohingya migrants, especially in clinics, hospitals, and schools.
A study by JNU revealed that illegal immigrants are increasingly involved in activities like smuggling, human trafficking, forgery, and other criminal acts, posing significant security risks for both residents of Delhi and law enforcement.
As a result, authorities have intensified their efforts to identify and deport Bangladeshi and Rohingya immigrants. However, due to the growing political support for these 'minority vote banks', actions against these illegal immigrants often face resistance.
The JNU study also highlighted that the lack of accurate data on Bangladeshi and Rohingya populations, the availability of forged documents, and disagreements between the central and state governments have complicated efforts to create a clear policy and take decisive action against illegal residents in Delhi.
Page 92 of the report concluded, “A well-rounded, balanced approach is essential—one that addresses the root causes of illegal immigration strengthens border security, improves identification mechanisms, and ensures fair treatment for immigrants.”
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